Header Text - Not happy with your web hosting? Move to us!

When businesses are thinking about how to transfer web hosting services it is usually to get better service, features, or pricing, so there can be multiple benefits that enhance a website’s performance and overall user experience. The reason most people transfer their hosting . Having to transfer web hosting from one provider to another can seem like a complicated task, but it doesn’t have to be. This article will show you what to do before you start, the steps involved, and how to avoid common mistakes. We’ll also explain what to look for in a new provider and why it’s better, especially if you’re new to web hosting, to let Hosted.com take care of it for you.  

Before You Start

Evaluate your current hosting and website’s performance. Make a note of what’s lacking and what you need to improve your website management before you transfer your website to a new web hosting provider.

Next, consider the type of website you have, the amount of traffic it is receiving, and any specific software or platforms you are using. This will also help you identify the type of Hosting plan that is best for your site.

Finally, check your current plan’s contract for cancellation terms and anything else related to transferring your web hosting. Be aware of potential cancellation fees and some providers may need a 30-day notice period before you can move.

Based on this, you’ll see what features and services you need. This could include specific server infrastructure, more resources, better performance and uptime, scalability, and customer support. You should also make sure your new web host can support any specific platforms your website uses, such as WordPress.

How To Choose A New Web Hosting Provider

When you’ve decided to change hosting services, there are some essential factors to consider. These will help you choose a reputable service provider to transfer web hosting to that offers the right balance of performance, security, support, and value for money.

Performance and Reliability

A good host should guarantee maximum uptime. Additionally, check the provider’s server infrastructure, as this will directly impact your site’s speed, user experience, and SEO (Search Engine Optimization) ranking.

Security

Web hosting security should be a top priority. Your hosting provider should offer features, including firewalls, 24/7 monitoring, and regular backups. SSL Certificates should also be included to encrypt your site and visitor data and improve its trust and credibility. They should also have a suite of malware detection and removal software.

Scalability

Your hosting needs may change as your website grows. Choose a provider that offers easy scalability options, allowing you to upgrade your hosting plan without downtime or hassle.

Customer Support

Quality customer support can be invaluable, especially during the transfer process. Look for providers that offer expert support.

Pricing and Contracts

Compare pricing plans across different providers but be wary of prices that seem too good to be true. Some providers may offer low introductory rates that significantly increase upon renewal. Also, check the contract’s terms to understand any cancellation policies.

Additional Features

Some hosting providers offer extra features that make managing your site easy, such as a Website Builder, 1-Click installs for WordPress and apps, and e-commerce integrations. These additional features can add immense value to your hosting package.

Strip Banner Text - Hosted.com’s Web Hosting Plans Are Backed By The Latest Tech

Hosted.com’s WordPress and cPanel Web Hosting plans are all backed by the latest tech, using only carrier-grade hardware and trusted software server solutions like Cloudlinux and LiteSpeed. Along with a 99.9% uptime guarantee, you’ll get the performance and stability your website deserves.

Your website will be protected by a tailored suite of security solutions including Patchman, Monarx, ImmunifyAV, and Bitninja. Along with a FREE SSL Certificate to encrypt sensitive data.

You’ll also get access to our Client Portal where you can manage all your products from one convenient, comprehensive platform.

Backup Your Website

Now that you know what you are looking for and have decided on the service that will suit you best, you can start getting ready to transfer web hosting. Before initiating the transfer, you need to have a complete backup of your website, so nothing is lost during the process. Here’s how to perform a backup:

  • Website Files: Install a File Transfer Protocol (FTP) client like Filezilla or CuteFTP, to download all your website’s files from your current hosting account. This includes HTML, scripts, images, and other media.
  • Databases: If your site uses a database (like MySQL for WordPress sites), export it using the control panel provided by your current host or tools like phpMyAdmin.
  • Email Accounts: If you host your email accounts with your site, you should back them up too. Some providers offer tools to export your emails, or you can use an email client like Outlook to download them. You can also look at using Email Hosting until your transfer is complete.

Steps to Transfer Web Hosting

Step 1: Create Your New Hosting Account

After selecting your new hosting provider, the first step is to create an account with them. Fill out your personal and contact details

Step 2: Point Your Domain Name to the New Server

There are two main options for handling your domain during a hosting transfer: transferring your domain to the new host or updating the Domain Name System (DNS) settings to point to the new server. Transferring your domain to the new hosting provider can simplify site management by keeping your domain registration and hosting services under one roof. This often includes the added convenience of the host managing DNS settings for you.

You can update the DNS settings manually if you prefer and are comfortable doing it yourself. Keep in mind these changes can take up to 48 hours to propagate.

You get seamless integration of your website’s domain and hosting services when you have both with Hosted.com. Because everything is done through a single platform, this makes tasks like domain management and renewal much easier.

Step 3: Transfer Your Website’s Files

The next step involves moving your website files from the old host to the new one. This can be done using the FTP client you used to download them previously, or your new hosting provider may do it for you. It’s crucial to have the same directory structure to prevent broken links or missing files.

Step 4: Import Your Database

If your website relies on a database e.g., MySQL for WordPress, you’ll need to export it from your old host and import it into the new one. This process typically involves using a tool like phpMyAdmin for both exporting and importing.

After the import, update any necessary configuration files to connect your website to the new database. This step ensures your site runs correctly on the new server.

Step 5: Test and Review

Before finalizing the transfer, you should test your website. This can be done using a temporary URL provided by the host or by setting up a local server on your computer and pointing your domain to the new server IP address. Testing should cover loading times, functionality, and responsiveness. Always check for errors and fix them before going live. After you are happy with everything, you can go ahead and publish your site on the new server.

Finally, you should always try minimizing downtime as much as possible. Choose a time when your website typically experiences low traffic and check with your new host how they can help keep downtime to a minimum during the transfer.

Strip Banner Text - It Is Vital To Back-Up Your Website Before Transferring Your Web Hosting

Common Mistakes To Avoid

Not Backing Up Your Site Correctly

Not backing up every website component can lead to significant data loss. It’s crucial to ensure that you have a complete backup of your website files, databases, email accounts, and any custom configurations (like .htaccess files).

Overlooking Email Settings

Email services can be interrupted if not properly managed during a hosting transfer. Back up all your emails and understand what you need to configure your email accounts on the new server. Updating MX records for email forwarding can help prevent you from missing important communications.

Not Testing Your Site Before Making the DNS Switch

Testing your site on the new host before making the DNS switch is crucial to identify any issues that could affect your site’s functionality. Check for broken links, load times, and functionality across all pages. Address any issues you find before proceeding with the DNS update to make sure your users can still access your page.

Not Informing Users and Search Engines

Failing to communicate about your hosting move can lead to confusion and poor user experience. You can use social media, email newsletters, or a notice on your website to keep your audience informed. Setting up an “Under Construction” page can help reassure users that you haven’t gone anywhere.

Additionally, ensure search engines are aware of the move by updating your sitemap and using tools like Google Search Console to monitor your site’s performance. This helps maintain your SEO ranking and visibility.

Choosing the Wrong Web Host

Being too hasty and changing to a web host that doesn’t meet your needs can lead to frustration, wasted money, and needing another transfer down the line.

Web Hosting Vs. Domain Name Transfer

Web hosting and domain name transfers are two separate processes for specific aspects of website management.

As we’ve shown, web hosting transfer involves moving your website’s files and data from one web hosting provider to another. It changes where your website’s data is stored and served from, without changing your website’s domain name.

A domain name transfer, on the other hand, is the process of changing the service provider responsible for managing your domain name.

It involves unlocking the domain at the current provider, obtaining an authorization code, and then initiating the transfer with the new one. It’s important to note that transferring a domain name does not involve transferring your website’s hosting; it simply changes who you manage your domain name registration through.

While you don’t necessarily have to have your web hosting with the same provider as your domain name, we highly recommend you have everything in one place.

Strip Banner Text - Hosted.com Will Ensure A Seamless Transfer, Leave It To Us

Let Hosted.com Handle Your Web Hosting Transfer

Transferring your website to a new host can be tricky, especially if you aren’t familiar with the process.

Hosted.com will ensure a seamless transition by preloading your website’s files and databases and having all email addresses ready to go live immediately after the transfer is complete.

If we receive full cooperation from your current hosting provider, the transfer process can be completed within a maximum of 7 days.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

  1. Your website’s needs and goals should drive your decision-making process when evaluating potential new web hosts. Check your current host’s terms and conditions for canceling and transferring.
  2. Prioritize security, scalability, responsive customer support, transparent pricing, and contracts, as well as value-added features when evaluating potential new web hosts.
  3. Perform a comprehensive backup of your website files, databases, and email accounts before initiating the web hosting transfer to ensure no data is lost during the process.
  4. The steps to transfer your web hosting are: Set up your new hosting account. Update your domain’s DNS settings to point to the new server. Transfer your website’s files to the new host. Export your database from the old host and import it into the new host, updating any configuration files as needed. Thoroughly test your site on the new server before going live.
  5. Thorough preparation, testing, and communication are essential to avoid common mistakes leading to data loss, email disruptions, downtime, and search engine issues.
  6. Transferring web hosting and transferring a domain name are different. Web hosting transfer moves your website’s files and data, while domain transfer changes the provider managing your domain name registration. It’s recommended to have web hosting and domain names under the same provider.

FAQs

What do I need to transfer my web hosting?

You’ll need your website files, database, and an active hosting account with the new provider.

How long can a web hosting transfer take?

The transfer process can take anywhere from a few hours to 7 days, depending on the size of your website and the providers involved.

Do I need to transfer my domain if I change web hosts?

Not necessarily. You can keep your existing domain and update the nameservers to point to the new hosting provider.

What are the potential risks of transferring web hosting?

Potential risks include downtime, data loss, email disruption, and DNS propagation issues if not done properly

Can I transfer my hosting while keeping the same IP address?

No, when you transfer to a new web host, you will get a new IP address assigned by that host. Your old IP will no longer work.

Other Blogs of Interest:

9 Essential Website Tools for SMEs

Web Hosting with Website Builder: Your Questions Answered

Finding The Best Web Hosting Templates For Your Website

Web Hosting Versus Domain Name – All the Facts Explained

Five Best cPanel Alternatives for Managing Websites in 2024